Global Speaking Opportunity

Dear Correspondents,

Do you know about the Global Digital Programs (CO.NX) hosted by the United States Department of State? This program aims to bring multimedia programs and discussions on various topics to a live audience to help create understanding across the globe.

Did you know that they interviewed Malaya, Jackie and Sunita, the three 2009 Correspondents who came on the Voices of Our Future Speaking Tour last year? During this interview, there were more than 94 logins to listen live, from 20 countries! This included a group of lawyers, women activists, young entrepreneurs and journalists who gathered at the US Embassy in La Paz, Bolivia--Jackie's home country. If you have a good connection, you can watch the interview by clicking here.

I wanted to let you know about this incredible program, because the Global Digital Programs is incredibly interested in the topics of women's empowerment and human rights, and wants to hear the voices of grassroots women just like you.

With the Global Digital Programs, you have the option to create your own mini-conference on any topic you like, which responds to their mandate. You can either do a live-chat (like you would with yahoo chat or Skype), or if you have a stable connection, they can do a live video of you speaking and answering questions from a live audience from around the globe. This is an amazing opportunity for you to get the word out about your community, your visions and projects for social change.

Below are two forms for the application. One is an explanation of the actual CO.NX form, which is a little unclear. The other is the form itself. If you would like suggestions or help in putting together your proposal, Scott and I can help. We also suggest you ask your Mentor or Midwife for feedback on your idea.

When you are ready to apply, send your form to Sarah White at whitesk@state.gov (not the other email listed on the application form). Please explain that you are a Voices of Our Future Correspondent and cc both Scott and myself. Please remember that you must go through their normal application procedure and that being a Correspondent does not guarantee that your proposal will be accepted. They have a rolling deadline and accept proposals throughout the year.

Take a look at their list of their upcoming speakers by going to their Facebook page !

Kind regards,

Rachael